Final acreage reporting dates approaching

Wow, our summer is flying by. I hope you all had a safe and happy 4th of July. Today I would like to remind you that FSA’s final acreage reporting dates are quickly approaching.

Filing a crop acreage report is required under most FSA program regulations in order to receive program benefits. If you miss the acreage reporting deadline dates, a late filing fee may be charged.

Deadline

Producers are required to file an FSA-578, Report of Acreage, certification for the farm by the June 30 deadline for small grains and by July 15 for all other crops.

To be considered timely, acreage reports on crops are due in the FSA county office by the earlier of June 30 for small grains and July 15 for all other crops, or 15 calendar days before the onset of harvest or grazing of the specific crop acreage being reported.

Since the weather has been very dry recently and some crops are starting to show signs of drought stress, It is also very important that you report any crop losses, including those insured under Federal Crop Insurance and Non-insured Assistance Program within 15 days of the date damage occurred or 15 days from the date damage is apparent to you.

Damage

Losses and or damages to crops must be reported after each disaster occurrence and in a timely manner to insure continued eligibility for benefits. If you have a crop insurance policy and you notice damage to your insured crop, it is always best to phone your insurance agent to open a claim and to discuss your options and responsibilities prior to any harvesting, mowing, or final destruction of the affected acres.

You are encouraged to visit your local FSA county office to file the required FSA-578 crop acreage certification report before the deadline dates. Filing an accurate acreage report for all crops and land uses, including failed acreage and prevented planting acreage, can prevent the loss of benefits for a variety of programs.